OVERVIEW
The Reducetarian Foundation's Sustainable Food Systems Certificate is a free 12-week virtual program designed to educate and empower participants to transform our food system. Through thought-provoking discussions and multimedia learning, participants will explore how food is produced and the profound impact our food system has on farmers and workers, marginalized communities, animals, public health, and the environment.
Designed for students, working professionals, parents, educators, and anyone seeking to create positive change, this certificate equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to drive meaningful impact in your career, community, or personal life. Sessions will take place weekly on Mondays, with all content delivered online.
FEATURES
The Sustainable Food Systems Certificate is a unique virtual opportunity for individuals seeking to make a tangible impact on our food system. Through the certificate program, participants get:
Certificate of Sustainable Food Systems (contingent on at least 90% program completion)*
Exposure to a wide range of approaches and strategies aimed at improving the food system
Access to a resource library with information on hundreds of articles, books, documentaries, courses, and other resources on food systems issues
Connections with like-minded peers, food system experts, and organizations working in food systems reform
Practical skills for sustainable living and advocacy and knowledge on how to make actionable changes in personal food choices and develop community initiatives
Benefits for certificate recipients include:
Funding opportunities for Reducetarian Summit attendance
Project funding for educational initiatives, campaigns, or community events
Group startup support to establish student organizations or community clubs
Regional U.S. community gatherings with fellow changemakers
Ongoing support from program staff, including letters of recommendation, additional introductions to food systems experts and organizations, and information about relevant job openings and local events
SCHEDULE
April-May
Applications for the summer cohort closed on May 17, 2026 at 11:59pm EST.
June–August
The 12-week summer program will begin in June and will include weekly 1.5 hour virtual, synchronous sessions every Monday. Participants will complete assigned readings and media asynchronously and participate in synchronous discussions with the goal of gaining an understanding of the biggest issues in our food system and the meaningful work being done to address them.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
The Reducetarian Sustainable Food Systems Certificate is open to individuals in the U.S. from all backgrounds of age 18 and over. We do not require prior experience with or specific knowledge about topics relevant to the program. We encourage all people interested to apply as materials, resources, and virtual sessions will be open to all accepted participants, regardless of the participant’s ability to attend all synchronous sessions.
Participants must complete at least 90% of synchronous sessions in the 12-week course to receive the certificate.*
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
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The Reducetarian Foundation’s Sustainable Food Systems Certificate is designed for:
Students exploring new fields and career paths
Educators and community leaders eager to support their community's health and educate others on food systems issues
Working professionals interested in integrating this knowledge into their work or personal choices
Parents committed to creating a healthier, more sustainable world for their children
Career changers seeking to align their work with their values
Anyone wanting to make informed decisions about food and take meaningful action
Whether you're considering a new direction, deepening your expertise, or wanting to create positive change, this certificate provides the evidence-based foundation you need.
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The Certificate Program is completely virtual with synchronous 1.5 hour sessions on Mondays. Participants will have the flexibility to review media and resources asynchronously prior to synchronous sessions.
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We expect participants to spend an average of about 3 hours per week on program meetings and assignments.
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Certainly! You are welcome to apply again. Repeat applicants will not be evaluated any differently from first-time applicants.
SPEAK WITH US
If you are unsure whether the Certificate Program would be a good match for your career goals, we encourage you to reach out to the Program Coordinator, Peri (peri@reducetarian.org).